If Your loved one is taken to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office
Suppose you need to make cremation arrangements for a family member who is currently in the care of the Medical Examiner. In that case, you must select a Cremation Provider and sign a Release Form. This gives your chosen funeral director the authority to collect your relative from the County morgue when the ME releases the body. The Coroner will liaise with the next of kin and advise when the deceased is expected to be released into the care of a funeral home for cremation. The role of the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner is to determine the cause and manner of death.
Los Angeles County Medical Examiner Office is located at 1104 N. Mission Road, Los Angeles, CA 90033 can be reached at (323) 343-0512 Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm.
The Medical Examiner also issues the cremation permit, which means that cremation arrangements for a deceased person at the ME’s office can be expedited. The DFS Memorials provider serving Los Angeles, CA, is familiar with the process of arranging the release and transfer of a death case into his care to conduct an affordable cremation service.
Guide to Financial Aid for Cremation Costs in Los Angeles, CA
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Department of Public Social Services (DPSS)Los Angeles County’s DPSS provides financial aid for funeral and cremation costs for low-income families. Eligibility is based on income and assets. Reach out to your local DPSS office to apply. You can find your DPSS Office locations here.
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Social Security Death BenefitIf your loved one qualified for Social Security, a one-time death benefit of $255 might be available to help offset costs. Contact the Social Security Administration to check eligibility.
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Charities and NonprofitsOrganizations such as the Salvation Army of Los Angeles Central Corps at 1532 W. 11th St., Los Angeles, CA 90015. Phone 213-381-3747 or St. Vincent de Paul Society, 210 N Ave 21, Los Angeles, CA 90031, may provide financial support for funeral expenses.
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CrowdfundingMany families turn to platforms like GoFundMe to raise funds for cremation expenses. Sharing your story can often inspire community support.
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Low-Cost Cremation ProvidersDirect cremation services in Los Angeles can be arranged for as low as $925 through budget providers. Research local crematories or ask DFS Memorials for assistance.
Veterans may receive a free burial or cremation at a VA national cemetery, including a grave marker and military honors. The VA may reimburse families for a portion of cremation or funeral costs, especially if the death occurred in a VA hospital or the veteran received a VA pension. Contact the Los Angeles Regional Department of Veterans Services, 11000 Wilshire Blvd., Federal Building, Los Angeles, CA 90024. Phone 800-827-1000
These organizations may provide direct financial support or work with funeral homes to offer discounted services for low-income families. For families facing financial hardship, these options may provide some assistance with part or the full cost of a cremation in Los Angeles, CA.